Henderson-Swasey Trail Network

This conservation land has a well-established trail system that provides a number of outdoor opportunities, including running, hiking, orienteering, and mountain biking.
Trail Activity
Walking Hiking Mountain biking Ungroomed cross-country skiing
Length
7.30 miles, Network
Difficulty
Easy, Moderate
Town
Exeter (NH)
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Rock/Ledge, Boardwalk/Bog Bridging, Snow, Ungroomed
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

The Henderson-Swasey Town Forest is a 220-acre area of conservation lands managed by the Exeter Conservation Commission. 

The forest has a well established trail system used for hiking, running, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. In the winter months the ungroomed trails are frequented by skiers and snowshoers. The trails connect to the Oaklands Town Forest trail network to the north through a large culvert that runs beneath NH-101. The woods are characterized by numerous boulder and ledge outcrops, hummocky terrain, and a number of vernal pools and isolated wetlands. It is a fertile wildlife area for a variety of species and provides an excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Several different set loops of varying length exist; however, there are also a number of linking trails that can be used to make loops of different lengths.

Trail Lengths (click segments on map to see trail names):

  • Green Loop – 1.7 miles
  • Blue Loop – 1.8 miles
  • Yellow Loop – 1.0 miles
  • Gas Pipeline Trail – 0.5 miles 

Other Information

Temporary closures may occur during very muddy or wet conditions. Closures will be posted at entrance kiosks and the Town of Exeter website. Private landowners have the right to limit access. Please respect closures for the benefit of all users. 

Unlike the Oaklands Town Forest, hunting is not permitted in this area. Leashed dogs under their owners control are welcomed. As a courtesy to others and out of respect to your trail system, please carry in - carry out all trash and clean up dog waste. 

Trail Manager

Visit the Town of Exeter Conservation Commission trail page for more information and a printable map or contact:

Town of Exeter

Town of Exeter
Kristen Murphy
10 Front Street
Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: 6037736112
kmurphy@exeternh.gov
View website

Trail Tips

Dispose of Waste Properly
Keep the Twin States (Vermont & New Hampshire) green and clean! Pick up trash, even if it's not yours. Leave soon-to-be trash like excess packaging, stickers, and twist ties at home.
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Trailhead Information

From Main Street in Exeter, turn onto NH-85 North/Water Street/Newfields Road and continue for 1.1 miles. Turn left into the parking area (just after the railroad tracks) where the trailhead is located. 

This is the main trailhead but there are other places to access the trails. 

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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